Median Earnings (1yr)
$46,439
53rd percentile (60th in NJ)
Median Debt
$22,500
13% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.48
Manageable
Sample Size
404
Adequate data

Analysis

Rowan University's business program shows promising momentum that separates it from typical outcomes in New Jersey. While starting earnings of $46,439 sit modestly above both national and state medians, graduates see substantial growth to $61,083 by year four—a 32% jump that outpaces most programs. Among New Jersey's 30 business programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, putting it ahead of the majority of in-state options.

The debt picture adds to the appeal, with graduates owing just $22,500 compared to the typical $26,000 nationally and $25,000 statewide. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48, meaning students can reasonably expect to pay off loans within two years of starting salary. The combination of below-average debt and above-average earnings growth creates a solid financial foundation.

While Rowan won't match the elite outcomes of Stevens Institute ($70,694) or Rutgers ($58,896), it offers a practical path to business careers without crushing debt. The strong earnings trajectory suggests graduates develop valuable skills that employers reward over time, making this a sensible choice for families seeking solid career preparation at a reasonable cost.

Where Rowan University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

Rowan UniversityOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Rowan University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Rowan University graduates earn $46k, placing them in the 53th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (30 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Rowan University$46,439$61,083$22,5000.48
Stevens Institute of Technology$70,694$100,049$27,0000.38
Thomas Edison State University$69,147$67,245$12,5000.18
Rutgers University-Camden$58,896$77,221$23,2500.39
Rutgers University-New Brunswick$58,896$77,221$23,2500.39
Rutgers University-Newark$58,896$77,221$23,2500.39
National Median$45,703$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in New Jersey

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken
$60,952$70,694$27,000
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton
$6,638$69,147$12,500
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden
$17,079$58,896$23,250
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick
$17,239$58,896$23,250
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark
$16,586$58,896$23,250

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Rowan University, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 404 graduates with reported earnings and 421 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.